Rhetorical Analysis of Media Control by Chomsky

Table of Contents

Introduction
Discussion
Conclusion
Reference

Introduction

Noam Chomskys classical book on censorship intends to awaken a revolution in devised propaganda. The author terms propaganda as a deception strategy on the bewildered herd (Chomsky 3). This term refers to the low-class and illiterate citizens whose only responsibility is to elect the leader. Chomsky reveals how the elites historically used influential and politically driven propaganda such as the creel commission and hysterical red scare to spread a specific notion that accomplished their interests (1). Chomsky applies colloquial diction, pathos appeal, causal and narrative argument to present his rationale.

Discussion

Chomskys explanation of concepts is descriptive with idiomatic expressions. For instance, Tear the Germans limb to limb, go to war and save the world (Chomsky 1) is a phrase used to explain how Woodrow Wilsons administration influenced the public through propaganda to destroy the perceived enemy. Also, the bewildered herd is an idiomatic expression used in the book to add character and dynamism to the referenced.

Also, the author divides his audience into two, one from the specialized class and the bewildered herd (Chomsky 3). In the book, specialized class individuals are portrayed as powerful and the ultimate decision-makers, while the bewildered herds are spectators and victims of cruel decisions. This supports his purpose as an author, which is to bring into perspective how politicians use the commoner to achieve their interests. This reveal is made through a causal argument that suggests that the controlled media has played a significant role in deceiving the public of their freedom to participate in national matters.

Conclusion

Chomsky exposes how the political influence threatens democracy and participation of the bewildered herd. Through intensified expository points, the author reveals how strategic propaganda has blinded the public from realizing they are indirectly denied a chance to participate in critical decision-making concerning the nation.